Following a violent clash between farmers and cattle rearers in Benue State 3605 affected persons mostly Fulani nomadics are currently taking refuge in four temporary camps in Utanga, Obanliku local Government area of Cross River State.
A team from the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) who had visited the camps to provide relief materials last weekend confirmed that the temporary camps accommodate 905 men, 1499 women and 1201 children.
The Director General of NEMA, Muhammad Sani-Sidi commended the Cross River State Government for accommodating the displaced persons and for providing borehole, tents and water tanks at the camps.
The NEMA boss asked the camp managers to ensure direct distribution of the items to the displaced people and that efforts should be made to ensure their return to their respective settlements in Katsina Ala, Benue State after the resolution of the conflict.
Mr. Mike Adeyanju who spoke on behalf of NEMA boss also appealed to the displaced Fulanis to maintain peace and cooperate with people in their host community.
Responding on behalf of the host community, Vice Chairman of Obanliku Local Government area Mrs. Margaret Achinikon said the council was instructed by the State Governor to create the temporary shelters for the displaced persons. She expressed gratitude to the federal government and NEMA for providing the relief assistance.
Also speaking at the occasion the Director General Cross River State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), Mr. Vincent Aquah observed that the continued influx of more persons to the camps require more facilities and supports from the government and stakeholders.
The representatives of displaced persons, Malam Wakili Abdullahi, said they had fled to the camps for safety and security after the crisis that erupted in Katsina-Ala local government area of Benue state. He thanked the host communities for their supports and promised to ensure peace and and harmony in the camps .
Yushau A. Shuaib
Head Public Relations
